Zenit St Petersburg have signed Brazilian midfielder Hernani, opening the door for Axel Witsel to join Juventus in January.
The Bianconeri were close to signing Witsel in the summer, and the Belgian was in Turin on deadline day to complete his move.
However, the Russian side pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute, as they were unable to find a replacement, but they have now brought in a midfield reinforcement.
“Hernani is a Zenit player,” a statement on Zenit’s official website confirmed.
Zenit St Petersburg have signed Brazilian midfielder Hernani, opening the door for Axel Witsel to join Juventus in January.
The Bianconeri were close to signing Witsel in the summer, and the Belgian was in Turin on deadline day to complete his move.
However, the Russian side pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute, as they were unable to find a replacement, but they have now brought in a midfield reinforcement.
“Hernani is a Zenit player,” a statement on Zenit’s official website confirmed.
“The Brazilian midfielder has become the club's first new signing in this winter transfer window, signing a 5-year contract.
“Hernani Azevedo Junior was born on 27 March 1994 in São Gonçalo do Sapucaí and started his career with Atlético Paranaense.
“He made his debut in 2013, before going on loan for half a season to Joinville. During this season Hernani has played 24 times and scored four goals.
“Zenit welcome Hernani to St. Petersburg and wish him many new victories.”
Speculation has grown in recent weeks that the Old Lady will return for Witsel, paying €6m to take him in January rather than waiting until his contract expires in the summer.
With the signing of Hernani, many are now taking this as a sign that the Belgian international will indeed move to Juve this winter.